Sandwell’s annual Christmas Lights Switch-On events are set to return this November, bringing festive entertainment, sparkling lights and seasonal celebrations to town centres across the borough.
This year will also see the launch of a brand-new event, Christmas at Sandwell Aquatics Centre in Smethwick, offering even more seasonal fun for residents and visitors.
From 13 November until 5 December, communities across the borough will gather to enjoy the free celebrations right on your doorstep to mark the start of the holiday season.
Whether you're looking for a fun-filled family outing or a magical evening with friends, our Christmas events offer something for everyone. Enjoy live music and entertainment, browse Christmas market stalls, meet special Christmas characters and soak up the seasonal atmosphere as the countdown to the big switch-on begins.
Join us at one of our town centre locations and celebrate the start of Christmas with sparkling lights, festive cheer and plenty of magical moments for all ages.
Christmas Lights Switch-On event schedule:
- Oldbury (Between Sandwell Council House and Sainsbury’s): Friday 13 November from 3.30pm to 6.30pm (switch-on at 6pm)
- Blackheath (High Street): Saturday 14 November from 4.30pm to 7pm (switch-on at 6.30pm)
- Tipton (Unity Walk): Friday 27 November from 4pm to 6.30pm (switch-on at 6.15pm)
- Wednesbury (Near the clock tower): Saturday 28 November from 3.30pm to 6.30pm (switch-on at 6pm)
- West Bromwich (Farley Fountain, behind Primark): Saturday 5 December from 4pm to 6.30pm (switch-on at 6.15pm)
NEW Christmas event for 2026:
- Christmas at Sandwell Aquatics Centre, Smethwick: Friday 4 December from 4pm to 6.45pm
Experience a brand-new festive celebration at the Aquatics Centre, featuring a fantastic Santa's Diving Elves Show, Christmas market stalls, live entertainment and children's fairground rides.
All events are free to attend and there is no need to book.
Councillor Mike Cooper, Sandwell Council's Cabinet Member for Customer Services and Neighbourhoods, said: “Christmas is a special time of year where families, friends and communities come together to celebrate and create lasting memories. Our Christmas Lights Switch-On events, alongside the new Christmas at the Aquatics Centre, are fantastic opportunities to enjoy the seasonal atmosphere, support our town centres and share in the excitement as our streets light up for the winter season.
“I am also delighted to see the introduction of Christmas at the Aquatics Centre this year, adding even more family-friendly experiences for residents and visitors to enjoy. I encourage everyone to come along and join us as we celebrate the start of Christmas in Sandwell.”
As part of the borough's festive celebrations, the Council will be installing festive lights displays in 22 locations and Christmas trees in 12 areas across Sandwell.
For full event information and the latest announcements, go to our Visit Sandwell webpage and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for event updates. For temporary road closures, visit our road closures webpage.